Quick answer: Bisque firing is the first firing. It hardens raw clay into durable, porous ware that can absorb glaze. Glaze firing is the second firing. It melts glaze into a glassy, sealed surface and brings the piece to maturity. Both stages serve different purposes, and skipping or rushing either one shows in the final […]
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Quick answer: Kiln firing temperatures are measured in cones, ranging from cone 022 (about 1087°F) to cone 14 (about 2552°F). Bisque firing typically happens at cone 04–06 (1828–1945°F), while glaze firing depends on your clay body—low-fire at cone 06–04, mid-range at cone 5–6 (2167–2232°F), and high-fire at cone 9–10 (2300–2381°F). Get the temperature wrong, and […]
Quick answer: A digital pyrometer measures the exact temperature inside your kiln in real time. It pairs a thermocouple or infrared sensor with a digital readout, giving you precise data that pyrometric cones and analog gauges can’t match. The result: consistent firings, fewer ruined pieces, and tighter control over every cone. Guesswork ruins good work. […]
Quick Answer: A compact pug mill recycles, mixes, and de-airs clay in a small footprint, perfect for a converted bedroom or garage studio. The best models combine a de-airing chamber, stainless steel construction, and space-saving designs—turning scrap clay into ready-to-use logs without the need for industrial equipment. Space constraints challenge every small studio. When your […]
A Skutt 240V electric kiln runs on standard residential high-voltage power, reaches cone 10 (around 2,350°F), and fires evenly from top to bottom. It suits serious potters who want reliable, repeatable results without commercial three-phase wiring. Most models pair with the KilnMaster or GlassMaster digital controller for precise, programmable firings. You know what a good […]
A fuel-burning kiln is the best choice for reduction firing. Gas kilns—running on natural gas or propane—give potters the most reliable control over atmosphere and are the standard for studio reduction work. Wood-fired kilns deliver unmatched surface character but demand far more labor. Electric kilns can simulate reduction, but only with added equipment and real […]
Quick answer: A professional pottery wheel is built for daily use, with a powerful motor (½ to 1+ HP), a high centering capacity (100+ lbs), and a durable construction that withstands years of studio work. The best choice depends on your throwing style, space, and budget. Brands like Shimpo, Brent, and Skutt lead the market […]
Quick answer: An electric kiln is the most practical option for home pottery studios because it’s clean, easy to control, and runs on standard household power. Before buying, check your space, electrical setup (most need 240V), and the kiln’s temperature range. Trusted brands like Skutt, Paragon, and L&L offer reliable models for beginners and pros […]
So you’ve caught the pottery bug and you’re ready to set up a space at home. Good news: you don’t need a warehouse or a fortune to get started. You just need to think through a few things before you buy anything.Start With Space, Not EquipmentBefore shopping for a wheel or kiln, look at the […]
If you’ve spent any time browsing glaze shelves, you’ve run into AMACO. They’re one of the most established names in ceramics, and for good reason — their lineup covers everything from classroom-safe low-fire glosses to richly textured Cone 5-6 art glazes. With hundreds of colors spread across dozens of series, though, picking the right one […]